I used to do this when I lived down south, in the cooler part of Oz.

I'd cut up and freeze some lean meat and non-potato vegetables, making sure that the frozen shape would fit the crock-pot.

Potatoes I'd peel the night before and leave in a bowl of water.

Before leaving for work I'd put the frozen stuff and the potato in the pot with salt, pepper and a handful of commercial dried mixed herbs. A half-dozen icecubes give water for cooking. As the pot only had an on and off switch, I could use a timer to set the thing off after a couple of hours. I got pretty got a working out how long was needed for quantities.

A small slurp of Worcestershire Sauce at the end and all was wonderful.

__________________
Calm, quiet, smooth, devastating